Tell me about mist coolant systems (and alternatives)...

[GeneT45]

So I've been thinking that I'd like to try some kind of automatic coolant system. I'd love something that puts coolant where I want and doesn't create a lot of aerosol. (Also I'd like it to cool, instantly, to room temperature, cost nothing, run on explitives, and produce gold as a byproduct of use... ;-) ) Y'all (at least those of you with some sort of coolant system) understand the trade-offs.

So, whatcha got and whatcha recommend?

TIA,

GsT

Edit: fingers can't keep up with thoughts...

 

[wrmiller]

I had FogBusters on both my mill and lathe. Droplets, not aerosol. Worked great. Not cheap though.

 

[verbotenwhisky]

So I've been thinking that I'd like to try some kind of automatic coolant system. I'd love something that puts coolant where I want and doesn't create a lot of aerosol. (Also I'd like it to cool, instantly, to room temperature, cost nothing, run on explitives, and produce gold as a byproduct of use... ;-) ) Y'all (at least those of you with some sort of coolant system) understand the trade-offs.

So, whatcha got and whatcha recommend?

TIA,

GsT

Edit: fingers can't keep up with thoughts...

I have a flood coolant system on my lathe, came with it, creates a mess alllllll over the garage. I am installing a mist system like the system I put on the mill, bout from amazon 30 bucks. I had been using this mist system on the mill driving it with air from the big compressor which is overkill and LOUD VERY LOUD.... then I had a thought (Yep, it hurt) Harbor freight sells this little compressor for air brushes for about 80 bucks, quiet and perfect flow and pressure so I bought one, still need to mount it in its final location but it works well and it whisper quiet. The mist cooler I bought has adjustments for air flow and coolant flow which allows me to control droplet size and aerosol management...

 

[mksj]

Alternatives often require air/compressor to pressurize the delivery system. Also depends on the application if this is for a mill or a lathe. Various coolants available, I use a water soluble oil emulsion solution which works on a wide range of materials, my primary concern was improved cutting performance, minimizing rust and low volume. A Fogbuster type system works on low pressure for both air and fluid lines so the end result is more spitting fluid as apposed to aerosolization. I made my own system and both lines have separate pressure regulators and solenoid valves. There are also separate needle valves to set the flow, I run very low pressures these days. Cost to make your own system is probably under $100. Alternative is below. At one point I tried Kool Mist solution in my bandsaw but had a lot of rust as well as going bad in the tank.

LUBE CUBE

Our HVLP fogless coolant sprayer that delivers a precisely targeted spray to the cutter and work piece without finely atomizing toxic coolants - substantially reducing coolant waste, lubrication over-spray, and hazardous fog

stupidsimple.tools

 

[GeneT45]

Alternatives often require air/compressor to pressurize the delivery system. Also depends on the application if this is for a mill or a lathe. Various coolants available, I use a water soluble oil emulsion solution which works on a wide range of materials, my primary concern was improved cutting performance, minimizing rust and low volume. A Fogbuster type system works on low pressure for both air and fluid lines so the end result is more spitting fluid as apposed to aerosolization. I made my own system and both lines have separate pressure regulators and solenoid valves. There are also separate needle valves to set the flow, I run very low pressures these days. Cost to make your own system is probably under $100. Alternative is below. At one point I tried Kool Mist solution in my bandsaw but had a lot of rust as well as going bad in the tank.

LUBE CUBE

Our HVLP fogless coolant sprayer that delivers a precisely targeted spray to the cutter and work piece without finely atomizing toxic coolants - substantially reducing coolant waste, lubrication over-spray, and hazardous fog

stupidsimple.tools

Wow! Thanks for that! I'm thinking mostly of the mill at this point, but I s'pose if I love it I'd do the same thing on the lathe. This is likely what I'm looking for.

Thanks again!

GsT

 

[verbotenwhisky]

Alternatives often require air/compressor to pressurize the delivery system. Also depends on the application if this is for a mill or a lathe. Various coolants available, I use a water soluble oil emulsion solution which works on a wide range of materials, my primary concern was improved cutting performance, minimizing rust and low volume. A Fogbuster type system works on low pressure for both air and fluid lines so the end result is more spitting fluid as apposed to aerosolization. I made my own system and both lines have separate pressure regulators and solenoid valves. There are also separate needle valves to set the flow, I run very low pressures these days. Cost to make your own system is probably under $100. Alternative is below. At one point I tried Kool Mist solution in my bandsaw but had a lot of rust as well as going bad in the tank.

LUBE CUBE

Our HVLP fogless coolant sprayer that delivers a precisely targeted spray to the cutter and work piece without finely atomizing toxic coolants - substantially reducing coolant waste, lubrication over-spray, and hazardous fog

stupidsimple.tools

I too use the soluble oil emulsion solution, I bought it for the flood system but now use it for the mist system, wouldn't use anything else, with you 100% on that.

 

[MikeWi]

I started with a Kool mist, but then modified the sprayer and manifold for a Fog Buster style system instead (homegrown) Works much better. If it's tuned right, the part appears to stay dry while turning, but it's not.

 

[bulgie]

Anyone care to share their favorite soluble oil brand/supplier?
I'll want a gallon at most, a quart would get me started. To avoid big shipping charges, something sold in Seattle would be most excellent unless someone knowss a reseller with free shipping?
I use HSS cutters most often with occasional carbide. Small/old/clapped-out mill and lathe. Have only used cutting oil applied with a brush or squeeze bottle until now. Leaning toward the LubeCube (thanks @mksj!)
I have a small air compressor that lives next to the mill already.

Thanks,
Mark

 

[MikeWi]

I use the Koolmist solution #7 I think it's called? 7 is the number anyway. Works fine, no rust.

 

[ttabbal]

Koolmist with the cheapo air nozzles. It works well for me overall. Decent cooling, while still keeping the mess down. I already had air there, as I use it for chip removal sometimes.